A little boy was taken to the dentist. It was discovered that he had a cavity that would have to be filled.
"Now, young man," asked the dentist, "what kind of filling would you like for that tooth?"
"Chocolate, please," replied the youngster.
DID YOU KNOW.... your diet greatly influences your dental health?
Good oral hygiene is incredibly important, and one of the best ways to get it is to eat healthy foods and pay close attention to how much sugar and sugary foods you eat. Some options are better than others, even when you want a sugary snack or dessert. This issue offers some suggestions as to how you can improve your nutrition and your oral hygiene.... for yourself and for the kids in your life!
In this issue:
Sugar Shock: Limiting Sugar Intake for the Sake of
Oral Health is Tougher Than it Sounds
Healthy Low Sugar Snacks for Kids
Rise In Early Childhood Caries (ECC) Spurs Center for Pediatric Dentistry Opening on the West Coast
Sugar Shock: Limiting Sugar Intake for the Sake of
Oral Health is Tougher Than it Sounds
Most of us are aware we need to limit sugary foods for the sake of our teeth. The task is easier said
than done because willpower is sometimes on short order, and because sugar shows up in some
surprising places.
It's not shocking that dentists recommend controlling your intake of soft, sweet foods like candy,
cakes and cookies. Some sources of sugar, however, aren't as obvious.
Carbohydrates found in crackers, breads and even pizza quickly break down into sugar and, as far as
your mouth is concerned, can have an impact similar to sugary treats. Other seemingly healthy foods
such as raisins and other dried fruits spend more time in your mouth because they're sticky and hard
to chew, leaving more time for sugars to do their damage.
According to Dr. Max Anderson, an oral health advisor for Delta Dental Plans Association,"Hundreds of types of bacteria live in the human mouth. Specific cavity-causing organisms feed on
sugar and turn it into acid, which attacks tooth enamel and causes tooth decay."
Dr. Anderson recommends reading labels closely to understand just how much sugar you're putting
into your mouth. Keep an eye out for ingredients like white or brown sugar, honey, molasses and
syrups, as well as for ingredients with names like fructose, sucrose, glucose, corn syrup and maltose.
All are various forms of sugar.
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Healthy Low Sugar Snacks for Kids
During the summertime, it's important to have good snacks for kids. Playing outside in the heat both increases kids' caloric needs and it makes them sweat more, so they can lose electrolytes and nutrition. Having a plan for a healthy snack that helps keep energy levels high and doesn't add too much sugar and "empty calories" is key. Here are some ideas that are quick, easy and tasty!
Cheese Please!
This protein-rich kid-friendly snack keeps energy levels high until it's time for the next meal. You can put salt-free pretzels sticks into cubes of cheese to make "satellite snacks" or cut cheese into fun shapes with a cookie cutter to make it more fun. Add some favorite fruits and put it all on a stick for a snack kabob that's low in sugar and healthy!
Peanut Butter-licious
This versatile childhood favorite has plenty of protein and fiber. It is sticky, though, so it does get stuck on the teeth. Take a minute after a snack to brush your teeth!
Make Baked Goods Better with Veggies
If your kids don't like too many veggies, you can sneak them into snacks they DO like - yummy muffins or breads! Banana bread, zucchini muffins, and carrot bars are a few favorites for kids.
Yogurt with real fruit
Low-fat yogurt is an excellent source of calcium, and children love it dressed up with tasty fruits. To add taste and nutritional value, whip up a yogurt parfait with berries and granola or make a homemade fruity yogurt pop that beats sugary store-bought frozen treats any day. It's sweet, but not too sweet, s o it's easy on the teeth!
With the right snacks, regular dental checkups and a daily oral hygiene routine including brushing and flossing, your kids can have healthy teeth and healthy bodies.
You can check out Parents Magazine on line for more healthy snack ideas!
Rise In Early Childhood Caries (ECC) Spurs Center for Pediatric Dentistry Opening on the West Coast
An estimated 28 percent of all U.S. toddlers and preschoolers are affected by Early Childhood Caries (ECC), which is the appearance of tooth decay in young children. Tooth decay is the most common chronic childhood disease -- five times more common than asthma. More than 51 million school hours are lost every year to dental-related issues, and in the long term, dental disease can be associated with serious illnesses including heart disease and stroke.
Tooth decay is highly preventable through early dental visits, healthy nutrition, and home care. In addition to causing unnecessary pain and suffering, tooth decay impacts the learning, development, self-esteem, and quality of life of children who are afflicted by this disease, sometimes lasting into adulthood. Access to regular care is critical to solving this oral health issue.
"We are seeing an alarming increase in Early Childhood Caries, or ECC. It is truly a national health crisis," said Dr. Joel Berg, director of The Center for Pediatric Dentistry in Seattle, Washington.
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